T253528
Lt. A.P. Brown M.C.

40th Battalion WWI

Private A.P. Brown

40th Battalion 1916

29 – 6 – 16

To Corp. Brown
From Dot
With best wishes

We love the old familiar books,
We love the by-gone days.
But best of all we love the friends we’ve met upon life’s ways.

D. Shalless
17 Bath St.
Battery Pt.
Hobart.

If anyone should find this book, please return it to

Mrs. W. Brown,
“Club Hotel”,
Main Rd.
Glenorchy,
Hobart,
Tasmania,
Australia

Diary of A.P. Brown,
February 1916

Joined the Claremont camp Hobart, Tasmania on February. 16^th 1916.

Went into the n°3 N.C.O’s school on April 11^th 1916, till May 5^th.

Promoted to Corporal on May 10^th.
Posted to n°7 Platoon. B. Coy on May 14^th 1916.

In charge of n°12 section.
14 men, most of them good chaps.

Transport arrived at Hobart 29^th June 1916.
10,000 ton Bermima. We expect to go on board on Sat. 1^st July.

Have had 4 days wet weather and things are pretty sloppy. We have had a good time in camp and are feeling real good.

Left Claremont on Sat. 1^st July 1916 at 1.30 pm. Raining for all it’s worth. Got aboard transport Bermima at 2.pm on 1/7/16, and set sail at 7.30 am 2/7/16, in the rain.

July 2^nd — Have had a beautiful trip so far. Only one of my men sick but a lot of others are pretty bad. Felt a bit crook myself for a while but am good now.

July 3^rd — Still having a good trip. Water like a millpond.

July 4^th — Arrived at Melbourne 7.30 am and after embarking 360 troops (artillery and infantry), left again at 12.30 am. 1650 on board. We expected to go ashore but were disappointed as no one was allowed off the boat. As far as we know now we are making for Fremantle.

July 5^th — It has been pretty rough all day today. Nearly everyone sick. The look of some of the lads is enough to turn anyone up.

July 6^th — A lot calmer today.

July 7^th — The roughest day we have had. Waves breaking over the side.

July 8^th — Not bad weather today. We are out of the bight.

July 9^th — Splendid day today. All had to change into uniform for church. We expect to call at Fremantle today, as we have a couple of cases of measles on board. Have passed 2 ships up to date. Sighted land this morning. The first since leaving Melbourne.

July 10^th — Fine day today.

July 11^th — Raining very hard so have to keep down below. All started to learn semaphore signalling today.

July 12^th — Fine day today. First washing day. Did not call at Fremantle. We were all disappointed.

July 13^th — Fine day.

July 14^th — Having splendid trip.

July 15^th — Still having a good trip.

July 16^th — (Sun) Had a service on deck.

July 17^th — Washing day.

July 18^th — Saw a whale. Quite close to ship, about 40 yards away.

July 19^th — Beautiful day.

July 20^th — Another fine day.

July 21^st — Real summer day. The weather is getting fairly warm now. We received our first pay of 10£ per man today.

July 22^nd — Getting a bit rough today.

July 23^rd — Rough day.

July 24^th — Bit calmer today.

July 25^th — Nice day.

July 26^th — Sighted coast of Africa at 5 pm. This is the first land we have seen since leaving Melbourne.

July 27^th — Fine day. Still in sight of land. We expect to arrive at Cape Town about 10 am and have orders to dress in uniforms so think we will get leave. Arrived at Cape Town at MD. A very pretty place but very hilly. There does not appear to be an acre of flat ground for miles.

July 28^th — Have had to lay out in the stream all day till 6 o’clock at night. Have just come alongside but are not allowed off the boat.

July 29^th — Bit of excitement on board as we are going for a route march at 9 am.

July 30^th — Went for a march yesterday then dismissed till half past ten at night. Had a real good look around. Cape Town is a very dirty place on account of the black population. Very few white people in the streets. Had a look through several buildings including corporation buildings, railway institute and Cecil Rhodes residence. Some very fine stone buildings in the city. Went to a play “Rob Roy”, where we were allowed in free. Everybody we have met so far seems very sociable. There are 4 other troopships here and about 1,000 troops.

July 31^st — Went for another march this morning and back again for dinner. Allowed ashore after dinner till 11.30 pm. Went to a concert. All soldiers allowed in free. Moved out into the stream last night.

August 1916

August 1^st — After laying out in the harbour all yesterday we set sail today at 9 am, accompanied by cruiser and 2 other troopships. Cruiser “Kent”.

August 4^th — Having a good trip. We are travelling with all lights out at night now. There are 2 other transports with us which have N.Z. troops on.

August 6^th — Having a splendid voyage. The water is just like glass and the boat seems to be standing still.

August 9^th — Weather very hot for the last couple of days. Nearly everybody in shorts. We crossed the line today. Had some great fun. Held the usual court. Shrewdy Wilson was King Neptune. Colonel Lord was charged with cruelty to dumb animals. Nearly everybody dipped in the bath fixed for the purpose.

August 10^th — Very warm. All going about in shirt sleeves.

August 13^th — Expect to reach Dakar tomorrow.

August 14^th — Arrived at port at 9 am. Very pretty place. Not a very big town and water is not deep enough for big boats to get up to the wharf, so we have to lay out in the harbour. The ‘Kent’ left us to return and bring some more transports on. Plenty of niggers here. A lot swam out from the shore, about ½ mile, and the lads are throwing pennies in the water which the niggers dive for.

August 15^th — Left Dakar at 6 am this morning. Did not get ashore. Another cruiser is with us. The “Opah”. We took on a 3’’ gun at Dakar. Expect to get to England in 10 days.

August 16^th — We have got a submarine guard on now as well as the ships guard.

August 17^th — The first death occurred on board today. A young man named Roach. He died of pneumonia.

August 18^th — The body of Roach was buried at sea today at half past 4 pm. Did not see much of the service as I was on guard.

August 21^st — The “Opah” left us this morning and the three destroyers took her place. We expect to arrive in England tomorrow.

August 22^nd — Sighted English coast at half past 7 am. Arrived at Plymouth at 12 MD. This is the biggest town we have called at so far and the harbour is full of warships of all descriptions. Had to lay out in the harbour till 5 o’clock; and then come in to the naval pier. We went straight off the boat onto the train. A big crowd around the harbour and they gave us a great reception. While we have been on board, the daily rations of meat amounted to 25 carcases of mutton and 10 forequarters of beef. We left Plymouth for Salisbury Plains at ¼ past 10 at night and arrived at Exeter, which is halfway at 1 o’clock am. Here we were each supplied with a bun and a cup of tea, by the mayoress of the town. Lots of people cheering along the way. After travelling all night we arrived at Salisbury at ½ past 5 in the morning. Then had to walk about 2 miles to camp. We were just about knocked out by the time we got here and had to sit down to bully beef and biscuits for breakfast. The camp is like a big village and by what I have seen so far it seems to be as big as Hobart. Have just heard that we are going to get a couple of days holiday on Friday.

August 24^th — We are going for 4 days leave on Monday. Have had one day’s drill and it is very solid. There are about a million and a half men here. 39,000 Australians. This camp is 40 miles square. The discipline is very strict here.

August 29^th — Arrived in London today at 11 am. Put the afternoon in going all round on top of buses. There are not many trams here but the traffic moves at a terrible rate.

August 30^th — Raining for all its worth. It was a beautiful day yesterday. Had a look round Hyde Park, the zoo, and several other places. Everything seems to be dearer than in Australia. A meal costs anything from 2£ to 2£6. Went to a play tonight. Not a bad show.

August 31^st — Raining again. Went to the Towers. Very old place and the attendants explained things to us. Saw through Hyde Park and the Marble Arch in the afternoon. Have been lost several times but it is quite easy to find the way by asking a policeman. London is an absolute darkness at night.

September 1916

September 1^st — Went and saw the guard changed at Buckingham Palace. My word, they are fine! Saw Queen Victoria’s statue. This is about the finest piece of work we saw. We then had a look round the Cathedral. The main hall is as wide as the main road and the building is as long as from the club, up to Johnnie Hixons. After dinner we went to Madame Toussuards’ Wat Works. The figures are very life-like and several times we mistook them for people looking round. Almost everybody if any note is here in coat.

September 2^nd — Arrived back at camp at 2 am and had to get up as usual at 6 am. Everyone is dog-tired but it has to be done.

September 4^th — Have been detailed to attend a bayonet fighting school at Tidworth.

September 6^th — Have had 2 days at the school and am just about knocked out. Have not done any physical jerks for about 2 months and they are pretty solid here.

September 11^th — Had weekend leave and went to London. Had a pretty good time.

September 15^th — Finished the school and arrived back at camp at 6 pm. Things have been mixed up a bit since I have been away. About 200 of the 40^th (Battalion) have been sent away as reinforcements. Out of 14 that I left Tassie with I have only got 8 now.

September 19^th — Have been detailed as N.C.O of company scouts. Everyone seems to think that there is not much chance of coming back now. Capt. Cruikshrank said to me “You are in for a merry life and a short one.” Very consoling, isn’t it? But I suppose one way is as good as another.

September 23^rd — Have been in England a month now. Have not got a very good opinion of the place. Rather disappointed with what I have seen so far. Have been half starved since we arrived here.

September 27^th — Marched to Bulford, about 2 miles away and were inspected by the King. There were 50,000 troops on review, and it was a grand sight, although it was a miserable day. Three divisions of infantry and brigade of artillery.

October 1916

October 2^nd — The whole brigade went into trenches for 4 days today. It is raining for all it’s worth. If it is worse than this at the front it must be bad.

October 3^rd — This is rotten. We have not had a good meal yet. For dinner we had one piece of bread and jam. For tea 2 pieces of bread and a piece of meat as big as a mince pie and half a lid full of tea. We are not allowed to take any water with us. At night we are billeted in a stable. 28 of us where there ought to be 20.

October 4^th — 3 am. Just had an alarm and it is raining like one thing. In fact it has been raining all the time we have been here, so we are just about wet through 4 pm. Left for camp as it is wet to go into the trenches as they intended we should. We are glad to be on the way home again (to Salisbury).

October 5^th — Another mail arrived. Received one letter from Dot. None arrived from home yet. I can’t understand why. I have not got a word from home yet. This makes 6 letters from Dot and from papers. Just as well I made the acquaintance before I left. I am satisfied she is a good lass.

October 7^th — Have had another week-end in London but did not have much of a time as it rained nearly all the time.

October 9^th — My hut has been isolated on account of mumps. Have had an epidemic of mumps and nearly every hut has had a turn of isolation. We expect to be in for a fortnight.

October 18^th — As we only did 2 days at the trenches we have to do another 4 days. Started for the trenches this morning and it is raining again for all its worth. We seem to be doomed to have a wet time in the trenches.

November 1916

November 4^th — Lady Ellison McCartney visited us at Larkhill. Raining like one thing. It has been raining for a fortnight and we are up to our ankles in mud.

November 8^th — We had an inspection by the Brigadier today and hadn’t to have all the things in our pack that we will take with us. The rumour is that we are leaving for France on the 23^rd of this month. We are going for our four days leave on Tuesday 15^th. This will be our final in England.

November 18^th — Have just returned from our holidays. We had a beautiful time. We went to Sheffield. There were 5 of us and there have not been many Australians up there and we were a kind of novelty. At any rate we were sorry to leave.

November 19^th — The weather is awful. It is snowing like one thing.

November 20^th — Snowed all last night and it is 2 or 3 inches thick everywhere today. We had to work all day getting ready to leave. We expect to leave on Tuesday.

November 21^st — It is just 3 months since we landed here and tomorrow we leave for France. Everybody is glad to be moving again.

November 23^rd — Left camp at 12 MD and entrained. Moved from station at 3.15 pm. Arrived Southampton at 5.30 pm and were put on board ship straight away. We are packed like sardines.

November 24^th — Arrived at Le Havre at 2.30 am. We left England at 6 pm and had a pretty good trip across, although a lot have been sick. Left the boat at 9 o’clock and after walking 5 miles with our packs up we arrived at a rest camp. We are to stop here till tomorrow. Our kit weights 80lbs and we were just about done when we got here.

November 28^th — Up at 5.30 am and moved to station at 6 pm. Four miles away. Left Le Havre at 11 am for Armentières. 42 hours train journey. Arrived at Merris at 4 am. Just about knocked up. There are 30 of us in a cattle truck and we did not have room to lay down. We are in hearing of the guns. About 8 miles from the firing line. Are having some fun trying to speak the French language.

December 1916

December 2^nd — Moved from Merris at 9.30 am today and after marching 10 miles arrived at Armentiers at 4.30 pm. We are to go into the trenches in a day or two. This town has had a terrible knocking about by the look of things. There are a lot of houses with the roof knocked off. We are only a mile and a half behind the firing line.

December 5^th — We had our first taste of the firing line tonight. The whole Battalion was in doing fatigues. Our job was to carry out empty has cylinders. Most of us were sniped at but there were no casualties.

December 8^th — The scouts came up into the trenches today and myself and another scout are to have a trip over “No Man’s Land” tonight at Midnight. In case I don’t come back I will say “goodbye”.

December 9^th — Out in “No Man’s Land” again tonight. The snipers are very busy and we had to keep pretty low.

December 10^th — Too much snow tonight so I did not go out. I nearly got blown to piece the first night we were out. Just after we got back from “no man’s land” Fritz started to land shells about 5 yards away from us and we had to dodge them for about a quarter of an hour.

 December 15^th — Have just come out of the trenches for a spell. It is pretty trying out in “No Man’s Land” and I will be glad of a spell. We are going for a bath tomorrow. We just about want one too as we have not had a good wash since we went into the trenches.

December 19^th — Another snowstorm today and it is very cold.

December 20^th — Back in the trenches today.

December 23^rd — Have been out every night but have managed to get back safely.

December 24^th — Christmas Eve and it is raining pretty hard but we had to go out just the same. My word. I would like to be in Tassie tonight.

December 25^th — Christmas Day in the trenches. I thought I might have had a spell tonight but we are not. Out in charge of a patrol and one lad got wounded in the wrist. It was not serious so he is lucky. I wish I was him. We never had any parcels or comfort funds today so it is hard to tell it from any other day. We all expected to get a Christmas parcel of some sort, but this life is full of disappointments.

December 26^th — Boxing Day. A very heavy frost this morning.

December 27^th — Out of the trenches for another spell. Glad to get out again as we have not had our Christmas yet.

December 28^th — Pretty miserable weather just at present.

January 1917

January 1^st — In billet still and had a very quiet day.

January 3^rd — Back in the trenches again. Fritz a lot more active than usual.

January 4^th — Fritz bombarded us again tonight and it was awful. I had several narrow escapes and never thought I would live through it. Our front has got very active lately and I think we must be making a move shortly.

January 9^th — Out again for a couple of days spell and glad to get out. My nerves are all going to pieces.

January 13^th — Back in the trenches again.

January 15^th — Started to snow today and it is awful cold.

January 18^th — Snowed for 4 days and there is a foot of snow everywhere.

January 19^th — Moved out of the trenches today and most of us are just about broke up. We expect to be out for 3 weeks but I suppose we will be doing fatigues most of the time.

January 26^th — Back again in the trenches. Had to get back in a hurry. Don’t know why.

January 31^st — Fritz made another raid tonight but did not do any good. A patrol with myself in charge was out in front when the artillery started and I thought the end had come, but we managed to get back again. After it was all over, our own men fired at us thinking we were German but did not hit any of us. This is the 2^nd time we have been fired on by our own men.

February 1917

February 3^rd — We have had snow on the ground for a fortnight now. The sun is not strong enough to melt it. It makes it hard for our work out in front.

February 5^th — Out of the trenches again, but only for 3 days. We have lost 15 – 20 men this time in.

February 7^th — Received our Christmas comfort parcel today. They left Tassie in October.

February 8^th — Christmas pudding arrived today but all mouldy. I don’t think there is one good one amongst the lot. They were made by Haywoods.

February 10^th — Back into the trenches tonight.

February 12^th — 40th Battalion made a raid tonight but it was not a success. Result = 1 officer killed. 1 wounded, 1 man killed. This is the second time we have raided.

February 14^th — The heaviest bombardment I have took place tonight. We had a job to hear ourselves speak. The weather is getting a bit warmer now.

February 16^th — It is 12 months today since I entered camp. I wish I was there now as it is hell on earth here. Fritz had been giving us a rough time since we have been in here. Every couple of hours he sends over shells that we call minnies. When they fall they seem to split the earth and make a hole 10 feet deep and 20 feet round. We are just about sick of them and the war too.

February 20^th — Out for a spell again.

February 22^nd — Battalion scouts broken up and we have all gone back to our Coys. We are going to do the same work as we have been doing.

February 25^th — Back to the trenches today for 6 days and then out for 2 weeks. Then we expect to move to another front. We have been on four different fronts so far. Weather is getting a lot warmer now. The sun is shining today for the first time for a long time.

March 1917

March 2^nd — Out for a spell again.

March 6^th — Are going in again tonight. Have just got orders to be ready to move to a new front 15 miles away.

March 7^th — Moving away today at 12 MD.

March 9^th — We did not go far yesterday but moved on again today, about 10 miles and the March just about knocked us up. 3 months since we did any marching. B Coy strength is only 130 out of 225 that we left Larkhill with. Of course we have got our 3^rd reinforcements. There are only 90 of the original 40th left. We are back out of hearing of guns tonight and it is a pleasure.

March 11^th — We have been resting since we arrived here. We are getting ready for the big push. Sunday. We are going to church today, the first time since we have been in France.

March 14^th — Have met the nicest family I have seen since I arrived here. Two or three of us put in the evening with them till it is time to go to bed. Our billets are at Noote Boom.

March 18^th — Have just heard that we are going 36 miles further on tomorrow. Will be sorry to leave here. We have had a real good time with our French friends. One of Fritz’s aeroplanes came over last night but did not go back. They dropped a couple of bombs but did no damage.

March 21^st — We are on the move again. We go 11 miles today. Borre.

March 22^nd — Going about 19 miles today. Arrived at Lynde tonight.

March 23^rd — Finished our journey today. When we did 12 miles. We moved about 40 miles from the line altogether. We stay here for a fortnight and then return. Nearly everybody had sore feet.

March 27^th — Promoted to Sergeant from today. Went to baths at St. Omer and saw a lot of Fritz prisoners bathing.

April 1917

April 2^nd — Started to snow today.

April 3^rd — It must have snowed all night. There is a foot of snow on the ground this morning.

April 5^th — We moved from St. Omer today to Arkes (Arques) about four miles.

April 6^th — Good Friday. We started from Arques today on our way to the trenches, per train as far as Steenwerck. We marched the rest of the way, about 6 miles and arrived at Armentières at 4 o’clock pm. We did not think we would see this place again, but we are here for a little while longer and then we go over the top.

April 9^th — In the trenches again today. Things are pretty quiet so far.

April 13^th — Three of us went over to Fritz wire tonight. This is the first time we have been amongst his wire.

April 14^th — We are being relieved today.

April 16^th — Fritz raided us again tonight but as usual did no good. This is his third raid on us.

April 19^th — The whole Battalion were marched to the Y.M.C.A today for a concert. It was a real food turnout.

April 21^st — We are moving trenches about 12 miles away. It is one of the hottest corners of the line round about Armentières. We only expect to be there a little while before we go “over the top.”

April 24^th — We are in the trenches again, this time in support. This time at Ploegsteert. This supposed to be a pretty warm corner. We expect to “go over” here, in a bout a fortnight.

April 28^th — The weather had been pretty warm here for a while and is just like our summer. Wish I was home again.

April 29^th — Saw a Fritz aeroplane brought down by one of ours today. This is the first aerial fight I have seen. We got quite excited.

April 30^th — Came into the front line tonight.

May 1917

May 2^nd — This front has been pretty quiet so far.

May 11^th — I have had B. Coy out scouting since we have been in this time. Have taken them out 20 at a time. All the other original scouts have gone back to the Coy so I am working by myself now.

May 13^th — Have just had a party out and unloaded 16,000 shells.

May 17^th — Unloaded more shells tonight.

May 19^th — Took a party out to have a look at Fritz wire tonight. The Battalion is going to make a raid and we are looking for gaps.

May 20^th — Out in front again tonight. The rest of the Coy have been unloading shells day and night since we have been out of the trenches. Getting ready for the push. I think it’s pretty close now.

May 21^st — Saw a chap from Charlie’s Division today so expect to see him soon.

May 22^nd — Charlie came out to see me today. I did not know him as he had grown a moustache. We had a long talk for about 2 hours. He is camped about 10 miles from me.

May 24^th — Have been made acting CSM during the big advance.

May 29^th — Moved a little closer to the line. The 40th are going over just on one part of the line. We expect to go “over the top” in about a week.

May 31^st — The artillery is getting more active every day. There are hundreds of guns here now.

June 1917

June 2^nd — Nearly all the guns are firing and it is a job to hear yourself speak. I think we have got about 3 more days before we go “over the top.” The ground is trembling like an earthquake with so many guns firing.

June 3^rd — We had our first taste of gas tonight. Several chaps got caught.

June 4^th — More gas today.

June 6^th — We are packed ready to go “over the top” at any minute. I think we will be moving about tomorrow. In case I don’t get another chance I will say “goodbye.”

June 8^th — As I expected, we went “over the top” at 10 past 3 yesterday morning. It is a job to describe one’s feelings when going over. The Germans run for their life. I captured three out of a dug-out by myself. They were so frightened as could be.

June 9^th — We came out of the trenches today. I lost my best pal J. Mason yesterday. He was wounded. Will be Platoon Sgt. now.

June 11^th — Have had a couple of days spell but are off again tomorrow.

June 14^th — We are doing fatigue work now.

June 20^th — Still on fatigue work. Last night Fritz blew up one our dumps. We had a narrow escape.

June 23^rd — We are on the move again tomorrow.

June 26^th — We are doing 18 days training, the same as we did at Claremont. It is rather monotonous.

June 28^th — The G.O.C inspecting us today.

June 30^th — Still doing training. Just about sick of it.

July 1917

July 2^nd — It is the anniversary today of when we left Tassie. It seems like 12 years instead of 12 months.

July 3^rd — Told today to get ready for leave for Blighty. Naturally I cannot think of anything else.

July 4^th — My leave has been postponed for a week.

July 9^th — Left Bailleul for Boulogne at 3 pm and arrived at 9 pm and went to a rest camp until tomorrow.

July 10^th — Left wharf at 12 MD and arrived at Folkstone at 2.30pm. We were escorted by destroyers and balloons on the trip across the Channel. Arrived in London at 9.30 pm and met some of the 40th chaps there just out of hospital. They got hit at Messines.

July 11^th — Went to Epsom today to see J. Mason but he had just left hospital and I was lucky enough to meet him when I got back to London.

July 12^th — Went to Brighton today and stayed all night. I took a parcel down for a chap who is in France, for his people. Brighton is a very pretty place.

July 13^th — Back in London by MD and started with Jack for Scotland at 11.30 pm. This train is called “The Flying Scotsman” and travels at 70 M.P.H.

July 14^th — Arrived at Glasgow at 1 pm and after dinner had a good look around the city. The annual holidays are on so most of the shops are closed.

July 15^th — Went to Loch Lomond today, about 12 miles out. The scenery is splendid out here.

July 16^th — Went to Rothesay today, about 2 hours in the train and 20 minutes on the boat. Rothesay is a small island and is alive with people on holiday.

July 17^th — Had a good time yesterday, so are staying till tomorrow.

July 18^th — Left at 7 am for Glasgow. We have had a splendid time and have only seen 1 man in kilts in Scotland. Left for London at 1 pm and arrived at 11.30 pm.

July 19^th — Went to Kingston today. A watering place about 12 miles out of London. Only stopped a couple of hours and got back in time for the Theatre.

July 20^th — Reported at station at 7.30 am. Ready for France. It is hard to leave but I must go back. Arrived in France at 5 pm. Boarded the train at 2 am on July 21^st and got back to Bailleul at 11.30 am. Had to walk about 7 miles before I found the Battalion as they had moved. Found them at 8.30 pm in the trenches.

July 22^nd — This is about the hottest corner we have been in for a while and it is hard after peaceful London. We are just on the left of Messines.

July 25^th — About 16 men gassed today. There is only about 400 of the Battalion left now and we want reinforcements badly.

July 27^th — There is a rumour that we move out tomorrow. I hope it is right.

August 1917

August 3^rd — We move out tomorrow after doing 15 days in.

August 4^th — This is the 3^rd anniversary of war today and we do not seem much closer to the end than when we came here.

August 5^th — Came out yesterday and were not sorry as it has been raining for 4 days. The trenches are up to our knees in mud. All dug-outs fell in as the ground had been so shaken by shells that it will not hold together.

August 8^th — We are doing 14 days training now.

August 12^th — On the move again. This time we are going about 30 miles back.

August 13^th — Came about 20 miles in the train yesterday and then had to walk 10 kms (about 10 miles. We were just about knocked up as we had not done any marching for a long time. Becourt is the name of the village where we were billeted. 40 Australians had been here before.

August 14^th — Had all day off today.

August 18^th — We are having a real good time here. We are only doing 5 hours work a day. Mostly route marching. Very quiet here.

August 26^th — Still at Becourt doing nothing in particular.

September 1917

September 4^th — Inspection by Brigadier Mc Nichol today. He said it is the best he has seen since he came to France. B Coy was especially mentioned.

September 10^th — Route march today. 15 miles. Just about knocked out.

September 14^th — Had a day in bed with a bad back. The first time I have had to go sick since I joined up.

September 18^th — Inspected today by Sir Doug Haig.

September 24^th — Rumour that we move back to trenches tomorrow.

September 25^th — On the move today, we marched 13 miles today.

September 26^th — marched 18 miles today and our feet are as sore as boils.

September 27^th — On the move again. Only did 10 miles today but it was quite enough with the full pack up. Have got blisters as big as halfcrowns, so they are fairly sore. We are about 10 miles from the front line and I think we will be over the top before long.

September 28^th — Another move of 5 miles today.

September 29^th — Picked out the men to go over the top today and I have been cut out. No Platoon Sgts are allowed to go. I would like to have gone and asked to be allowed to go but it was no use.

September 30^th — Am going to a school today.

October 1917

 October 1^st — Arrived at school today for 5 weeks. It’s more for officers. I heard that I have to take on CSM job when I get back.

October 2^nd — One week gone and I don’t mind this at all. It is quite a good rest.

October 3^rd — Have got a touch of scabies but don’t want to go to hospital if I can help it.

October 19^th — No use! I have to go to hospital today. I have nearly scratched myself to pieces.

October 20^th — Am in the 4^th stationary hospital at Arques, about 4 miles from St. Omer. The food is not too good so far. Not enough of it.

October 21^st — Had a visit from Fritz in his planes last night. This is the 5^th time he has bombed St. Omer. Last time he killed 4 nurses at this hospital. The people here expect him every moonlight night now. It is awful to see how frightened they are.

October 22^nd — Discharged from hospital today and am going back to school.

October 24^th — Am going to Boulogne tomorrow.

October 28^th — Went to Boulogne yesterday and had a splendid time. It is about 40 kms from here and we went down by motorbus. Left here at 7.30 am and got back at 9.30 pm. It is about 2 ½ hrs run.

October 29^th — School finishes tomorrow.

October 31^st — We will be on the move for the Battalion tomorrow.

November 1917

November 3^rd — Arrived back at Battalion today. Only 17 of the Platoon out of 44. It is enough to make anyone cry.

November 4^th — Got the shock of my life today. The O.C told me that he has recommended me for a commission. I never expected anything like that. I went and saw the Brigadier today.

November 5^th — Am going on as CSM till orders come through about my commission.

November 6^th — Promoted to CSM today. Left Becourt today for first time. Tommies route march by bus!

November 11^th — Stopped at la Motte last night.

November 12^th — In the track again.

November 13^th — Arrived at camp last night and are here for 8 days.

November 14^th — Have just been told by the Colonel that my commission has come through, so from today I am Lieutenant Brown. Everyone in the Coy has congratulated me and I think they are all pleased.

November 18^th — It seems awfully strange to be amongst the other officers and I seem to be rather out of place. The officers are real fine chaps and I think I will be alright after a while.

November 20^th — The Battalion moved into the line today, but as there are not many dug outs in the trenches. 2 officers are staying out for 4 days and then we are changing over. We are staying at the Q. M.’s store.

November 23^rd — Just 12 months today since we left England. I have been detailed to train for a raid on Fritz trenches. Have to take the place of another officer who is on leave.

November 27^th — It is getting very close no to the night when we go “over”. I have been up three times to have a good look around. We “go over” on Friday night.

November 30^th — We “go over” tonight at 1 am. It is 6 o’clock now and I will not have another chance to write again before we “go over”. Goodbye in case I don’t come back. I think I will get through alright.

Perce.

December 1917

December 1^st — 6 am. Just back again. I came through alright without a scratch, thank the Lord and only had one man wounded. The raid was a brilliant success. The first successful raid the 40th has carried out. Have been congratulated by all the heads, Brigadier included. Warreton is the place we raided.

December 2^nd — Army Corps. Commander inspects us tomorrow.

December 3^rd — Did not go on the inspection myself. G.O.C pinned ribbons on men I recommended for good work on the raid. They are quite proud now. Nobody seems to be able to do enough for me. Am sort of a 10 days wonder.

December 4^th — All returned to Battalion today.

December 5^th — Moved into trenches today. Have been put in charge of fighting patrol of 10 men and L.G. Received parcel from Grace and Elsie yesterday.

December 11^th — Am having a fair time in the trenches this time. Only do 2 hours out in front at night. The Battalion is expecting a raid from Fritz. We expect to be in till 15^th and then go out for a month, so we will be out for Christmas I hope.

December 16^th — Came out yesterday. We are not far from the line.

December 18^th — Am going to Junior Officers School today. Expect to be there a month.

December 19^th — Am at school but do not care for it much.

December 22^nd — We have had frosts for the last 5 days and there is ice about 3 inches thick on the shell-holes. It is very cold now.

December 24^th — Have just been informed that I have been awarded the M.C. Not a bad Christmas Day dinner.

December 25^th — Have just had dinner. Real good, too. Turkey, ham, plum pudding and several other things. Quite a good change from what we had last year. It has started to snow again and there is about 1 inch on the ground now. Received congratulations from General Birdwood on getting the M.C. today. Am sending it on.

December 27th — Received another congratulation today. This time from Brig. McNichol. Have sent it home.

December 29^th — Had to go on by General Birdwood today. He congratulated me.

January 1918

January 1^st — New Year’s Day. Had a very quiet day. The cinemas gave us free entertainment this afternoon, so we all went. Not a bad show. About 60 more reinforcements arrived and they are wanted badly enough.

January 7^th — Snowed all day today and there is about a foot of snow on the ground.

January 10^th — Finish school today and had a game of football. We played 8 games while at the school and only got beaten once.

January 13^th — Snowed again last night and about 6 inches on the ground. I have to take a school for scouts today to last a fortnight with 20 pupils.

January 27^th — Am going on leave tomorrow.

January 28^th — Left Calais at 11.30 am. I arrived at Dover at 2 pm and London at 5.30 pm. Intend to stay in London tomorrow and then go out into the countryside so will post this before I go. Hope you are all well. Perce. 28/1/18.

January 1918

Start of another year. Wonder will we be here this time next year. Good dinner but hope to have the next one at home.

January 1^st — Very quiet today. We are out of the line still and expect to be out till the end of the month.

January 4^th — Are playing a few football matches while we are out.

January 5^th — Football against 37th Battalion. N.C.O.’s officers won.

January 6^th — Should have gone on leave today but Brigade would not let me leave school.

January 7^th — Not feeling happy as I should be in Blighty now.

January 8^th — Started to snow last night and there are about 6 inches on the ground.

January 9^th — Received Christmas mail today. Expect parcels any time now. 7 letters.

January 10^th — Answering letters today.

January 11^th — School finishes tomorrow. Still answering letters.

January 12^th — Finished school today and played against 38th Battalion. N.C.O. Officers won.

January 14^th — Started school for officers today. 6 men from each Coy. Going till 19^th.

January 15^th — Rained very hard today.

January 16^th — Snowed like one thing all day.

January 17^th — There is 6 inches of snow on the ground.

January 18^th — It has rained all the week and I have not been able to get on as I would have liked with the scouting.

January 19^th — School finished. Have to take another lot next week and am going on leave when that is finished.

January 21^st — Started new school today.

January 22^nd — Scouts are very interested. They are a lot better than those I had last week.

January 23^rd — I will be glad when end of week comes.

January 24^th — Still conducting school.

January 25^th — School finishes tomorrow. Better weather this week.

January 26^th — Battalion officers had photo taken today. Am going on leave tomorrow.

January 27^th — Started for Bailleul at 11.30 am. 27-1-18.

January 28^th — Left Calais at 11.30 am. Arrived Dover 21.15 pm. London 5.30 pm. Staying at Howards Hotel (maybe Harvard’s Hotel)

January 29^th — Experienced air raid last night. Some fun! Arrived at Chester at 6.30 pm. It seems a very quiet place. Staying at Westminster Hotel.

January 30^th — Have had a look around the place. It is about as big as new Toron. Has walls all round which were used as defences in the olden days. Dates back to year 1500.

January 31^st — Went all round the walls today and about 2 miles and here is a fine suspension bridge across the River Dee.

February 1918

February 1^st — Had a look at the Cathedral. Met 2 nurses from the hospital and went to a play.

February 2^nd — Had a look through the gardens. Think I will move tomorrow. Bill for 5 days in Chester is £ 3-8-10½. Have brought a lot of new clothes so I am set up again.

February 3^rd — Still in Chester. Moved to Liverpool today.

February 4^th — Liverpool big seaport. Very busy and dirty. Going to Manchester tomorrow.

February 5^th — I wore pyjamas for the first time while I was in Chester. Fine museum at Liverpool. Splendid docks.

February 6^th — Left Liverpool at 10 past 2. Arrived Manchester at 3 pm. Met 2 nurses almost as soon as I arrived. They are about as jolly as I have seen for some time.

February 7^th — Went to picture gallery and it is a real fine place. Manchester is much like Sydney.

February 8^th — People here are very sociable. Have not seen the nurses again. They were only out for half a day. Visited munitions works today.

February 9^th — Found another girl and have been to a play every night. It makes all the difference when you have someone to go about with. Sent diary home. Went out to Mr. Desmond’s. Have had a splendid time here. Have to go back to London tomorrow.

February 10^th — Left Manchester at 10.30 pm. Arrived London 5 am.

February 11^th — Left London 7.15 am. Arrived Dover at 11 am and left again at 1 pm. Arrived Calais 3 pm. Stayed here till 1.30 am on Tuesday.

February 12^th — Arrived Bailleul at 5 pm and the Q. Masters store at 9 pm. The Battalion came out of line tonight, so I am going up again in the morning.

February 13^th — It is raining like one thing. I have had splendid weather and a real good time so am sorry to get back.

February 14^th — Joined Battalion at 3 pm and had to take a working part out at 5 pm. So they did not take long to get me busy.

February 15^th — Another working party tonight.

February 16^th — Plenty of mud and work. Just 2 years today since I went into Claremont camp. Seems like 20 years.

February 17^th — Frost this morning.

February 18^th — The specialists are moving in tonight. I am acting scout officers.

February 19^th — The Battalion moved into the trenches tonight. We are only in for 6 days this time. In front of Warreton.

February 20^th — Scout officer is rather a good job. I have been scout Cpl, scout Sgt. and now scout officer since we came to France. Rained last night.

February 21^st — Had one scout killed tonight and one wounded. Fritz fired quite a lot of shells tonight. This sector had been quiet for quite a long time.

February 22^nd — Things are fairly quiet today. Another scout wounded tonight. Shot in the leg while pinching a bag of coals from the cookhouse, by a stray bullet from Fritz (punished!)

February 23^rd — Quiet day today. Have not missed a night in No Man’s Land scouting since we came to France.

February 24^th — Relieved tonight and glad to get out. Working party tomorrow at 6 am.

February 26^th — Had working party into the line today. In front of Warreton. Got shelled. From our works. Received parcel from comforts funds.

February 27^th — Another working party. Received another parcel today. What a beauty from home this time! Everything in splendid condition. It left Tassie on 11-11-17.

February 28^th — Pay to be drawn today.

March 1918

March 1^st — We are camped at Neuve Eglise.

March 2^nd — Hope to have a long spell out this time.

March 4^th — Battalion is moving back to Lumbres for a month today.

March 5^th — Left Steenwerck yesterday at 11.30 pm and arrived here at 5.30 pm.

March 6^th — We are having a quiet time here.

March 7^th — Splendid weather. Have been elected to represent Coy on sports committee.

March 8^th — Played platoon football match today. Am very tired and stiff.

March 9^th — Another match today. Stiffer than yesterday. Pay tomorrow and also church parade.

March 10^th — Are spending most of our time at recreation.

March 11^th — Football is going to be all the rage while we are here.

March 12^th — Umpired match between C Coy and A Coy.

March 13^th — Umpired Headquarters and D Coy.

March 14^th — Coy played A Coy today, we won 7-5 2-3

March 15^th — Went to Lumbres to rifle range. 2^nd top score in the Coy. Having splendid weather.

March 16^th — Battalion sports meeting today. Am on sports committee.

March 18^th — Had fine meeting yesterday. Everyone enjoyed themselves.

March 19^th — Fired at A.R.A competition. My platoon has been congratulated on winning the competition yesterday. Have received orders to be ready to move anytime.

March 22^nd — On the move again. Going to Winnezeele. Up at 4.30 am. Fine day but long way to march. Left Lumbres at 2.15 pm by train.

March 23^rd — Arrived at Arques at 5.30 pm. Marched 8 miles to Wandreques. Are staying here for 2 days.

March 24^th — Had a spell today.

March 25^th — Fritz is making a move up on the Somme so we are moving down towards him tomorrow.

March 26^th — Left St. Omer at 3.15 pm. Fritz shelling Paris from longest range guns. Before this 30 miles. Don’t know where we are going.

March 27^th — Arrived Monticourt. 5.30 am. Travelling 12 hours, doing 50 miles. Expect to go in tonight. Have had no sleep for 2 nights now. The Tommies are retreating as hard as they can go and we are taking their places.

March 28^th — Made an advance today. Very stiff fight. We lost a good man. Sgt Mason wounded again. Still no sleep. Feel fit to drop.

March 29^th — Have dug in. Hope to be relieved tonight. Had a rotten time so far. Fritz digging in 200 yds away. Went out to get a m.g. (machine gun) but could not get near it.

March 30^th — Fritz counter-attacked tonight came over in 11 waves but did not get through. We must have killed hundreds tonight. It has been hell on earth for the last 3 days. Moved back to Ribemont.

March 31^st — Resting today. Sent photos home.

April 1918

April 1^st — Not much joking going on today. We are all too tired to sleep. I think it will take weeks to get over this.

April 2^nd — Still trying to sleep. No doubt we got it in the neck while we were in. Rumours that we are going in again tomorrow. Have been made scout officer.

April 3^rd — We are going in again tonight at Buire. Have been left out to act as O.C. control Piquet at Ribemont. The people have left their homes in a terrible hurry. Some just having a meal.

April 4^th — My birthday! What a difference to some I have had. Raining. It would almost make one cry to see the state of things in the town. Everything left just as people were living at the time.

April 5^th — Fritz shelled the town today. Killed several of the men in the street. Had to remove all the civilians that were left in town today. Rotten job but they might be spies.

April 6^th — The Battalion is being relieved tonight. Don’t know what sort of a time they have had in the line. Raining again. Am billeted in a house that had been left by the people (Fr) so I am using some of their beds. It is an ill wind that blows nobody any good! First bed I have slept in since I came back from leave.

April 7^th — Fairly quiet.

April 8^th — Another quiet day. Have all the wine in the village and am selling it on behalf of French mission. Have about a hundred dozen to sell.

April 9^th — Fritz gave us a lot of gas last night and he is shelling the town very heavily at present.

April 10^th — I have to relieve another officer tonight. He has had a rough time in line.

April 11^th — In the trenches again. Practically in line. Only a few posts cannot be visited by day. Buire is where the line is now.

April 12^th — Very quiet up to date. Hope it keeps like it. Do not feel nearly as good as when we first came over here. News gone.

April 13^th — Relieved last night. Working party today. Don’t get much time to rest now and we are all feeling rather jagged.

April 14^th — More working parties.

April 15^th — Working party today. Am making a system of trenches. Fritz shelled the town today. Nobody hurt. Going in again tomorrow.

April 16^th — In the trenches tonight. Very quiet. Am going on duty till tomorrow night. In front of Treux.

April 17^th — Quiet all day. Another officer came on tonight so I go back a little way for a sleep. No sleep for 36 hours.

April 18^th — Had a good sleep last night. Shave this morning so I am feeling alright.

April 19^th — On duty again tonight. Lt. Stebbings on patrol and captured a Fritz. On patrol myself but had orders to keep away from Fritz till tomorrow night.

April 20^th — Relieved. Expect to be relieved tonight. Have had a very quiet time so far. Later not being relieved till tomorrow.

April 21^st — Relieved tonight. Had a very quiet time. Out in billets. Big mail in today. Got 7 letters and a parcel. Have got no papers so will have to wait to answer them.

April 23^rd — Fine day today. First mail addressed “Lieutenant”.

April 24^th — Another fine day. Have been transferred to Battalion. Heaquarters as scout officer. All my platoon want to go scouting now. Am sorry to leave the Coy but expect I will come back as soon as they het shorthanded again.

April 25^th — Fritz shelled us last night with gas. The 3^rd Division has been especially mentioned for work done in the push. We are going in again tomorrow night.

April 26^th — Relieved 38 Battalion tonight. Expect to be in for 4 days in front of Buire.

April 27^th — Fairly quiet night last night. Am going out to recon our enemy position tonight and will try to get it tomorrow night.

April 28^th — Had raid. Rook prisoner. No casualties. As Fritz reappeared at the same position and we went for him again. No prisoners. No casualties.

April 29^th — We went to the same position tonight and dug in. Had 2 killed. Fritz was waiting for us. Lucky to get out alive. We are now holding the post. Relieved tonight.

May 1918

May 1^st — Am having a good sleep. Nothing to do. Had rather a rough time in last time.

May 2^nd — Still sleeping my head off.

May 3^rd — Very quiet day. No shelling.

May 4^th — Another quiet day. Expect to go in tomorrow. Just heard that I am not to go in. Colonel says that I have done enough for a while.

May 5^th — Moved back to Franvillers today.

May 6^th — Having my first spell since I came here to France. Second time I have missed going in the line.

May 7^th — We are only about 4 miles from the line. Furthest we have been from the line since coming to the Somme.

May 8^th — Fritz shelled town last night. Killed 5, wounded 9. Battalion relieved tomorrow night.

May 9^th — Battalion going back for a spell to Fréchencourt, about another 3 miles back.

May 10^th — Moved on as billeting officer. Trouble to find billets on account of number of troops here.

May 11^th — Having rest today. Orders today that 2^nd star is through, dating from March 1^st.

May 12^th — General Birdwood presented some medals to some of the boys. Am taking some scouts to train for a couple of days. Don’t know when we are moving.

May 14^th — Beautiful weather. Too good to be here.

May 15^th — Still training scouts. Expect to move in on fresh sector in couple of days.

May 16^th — Altered: allotment to 9£ From today.

May 17^th — Weather is warm and all are making use of the river Somme. Quite a treat to be able to go for a swim.

May 18^th — Went for a motor drive today, about 7 miles. Beautiful. Have had the heaviest rain I have ever seen. All streets were overflowed within ½ hour. Have been warned to attend scout school. About 18 miles back in a couple of days. Expect to be there for 14 days.

May 19^th — Church parade today.

May 20^th — The weather is extraordinarily hot. We are almost living in the water.

May 21^st — Moved to school today at Bouchon. Arrived at 6 pm. Good quiet spot. About 30 miles behind the lines.

May 22^nd — First parade 8.20 am. Seems to be a good school very small village. Battalion moved to Villers-Bretonneux today. Have not found any water yet in the village to swim in.

May 23^rd — Fritz had not got all the positions we took last year, around Messines and Ypres. Tommies were holding the line after we left and cleared out. Did something here, and that’s why we had to come up here. They are no good.

May 24^th — Another fine day today. School is going along nicely. Mess fee 4 francs for a day.

May 25^th — Half holiday today. It has rained pretty hard today.

May 26^th — No parade today.

May 27^th — Went for a look around yesterday to Flixecourt.

May 28^th — Fritz bombed a town a little way from us last night. Never dropped any near us.

May 29^th — Another fine day today.

May 30^th — Fritz killed 7 W.A.A.Cs last night with his bombs at Abbeville.

May 31^st — Our planes are very active. Bombing at night. One drome 54 planes dropped 15 tons every night.

June 1918

June 1^st — One year and 11 months since we left Tassie. Wonder how much longer we will be here.

June 2^nd — No parade today (Sun)

June 3^rd — Went to Abbeville yesterday. Fine big place but knocked about with bombs.

June 4^th — School finishes today. We leave for the Battalion at 5.30 pm. Arrived at St. Leger at 6.30 pm. Have to stay here for the night.

June 6^th — Left St. Leger at 9.30 am and marched to Vaux. 12 kilometres.

June 7^th — On the move again. Another 12 miles to Camon. 12 months yesterday since we took Messines. Fritz had it now.

June 8^th — Moved on to Noyelles today. Have been all round Amiens today. Very big place.

June 9^th — Church parade today.

June 10^th — We go into line tomorrow at Villers-Bretonneux.

June 11^th — Relieved 38th Battalion tonight. Rather lively sector. Am not in the best of health but must carry on.

June 12^th — Feeling pretty fit again. Scouting is very lively here.

June 13^th — Had a met up with Fritz last night in No Man’s Land. The people we relieved here allowed him to put a post in about 70 yards from our line.

June 14^th — Patrol went out to deal with the post but found them about 60 strong so had to withdraw. 1 man missing.

June 15^th — Fritz shelled Battalion. Headquarters today but had no casualties.

June 17^th — On patrol tonight. Having splendid weather still.

June 18^th — To be relieved tonight. Patrol had another scrap with Fritz last night.

June 19^th — Relieved last night by 38th Battalion. Moved Back about a mile.

June 20^th — I have been sent back to Noyelles about 4 miles back. Have not been feeling too good lately.

June 21^st — Am having a pretty quiet time. We are out living in bivvies in a wood. It is splendid.

June 22^nd — On the sick list again. Have had a day in bed with rheumatism.

June 23^rd — Church parade today.

June 24^th — Rumour that we are going back farther.

June 25^th — Fine day today. Plenty of our planes about. Moving tomorrow to Querrieu.

June 26^th — One the move again. Passed Charlie’s Division on the way out and he ran out to see me. He is looking well. Still has his moustache. Am not feeling too good.

June 27^th — Having a quiet time. Beautiful weather. We expect to stay out for 10 days which is a bit longer than usual.

June 28^th — We are starting training on Monday.

June 29^th — Am going to see Charlie tomorrow. He is only about a mile away. Two years since we left Tassie tomorrow. I wonder how much longer we will be here.

June 30^th — Church parade today. Went and saw Charlie.

July 1918

July 1^st — Sports today to commemorate our leaving Tassie. Had a big dinner tonight.

July 2^nd — Sports again today. Have had a good time since we have been out this time. The weather has been splendid. Charlie came round to see me.

July 3^rd — Officers hack-race tomorrow. I am riding the doctor’s horse. Went to Abbeville today. Australians had another advance today.

July 4^th — Only ran 5^th in the race. Good race. Brigade are holding sports on Saturday.

July 5^th — Another hot day today. We are still at Querrieu, about 12 miles from Querrieu?

July 6^th — Brigade sports today. 40th had procession of fancy costumes. Looked real well. Having our photos taken tomorrow.

July 7^th — Had photos taken.

July 8^th — Swimming carnival today. Quite a good day’s outing. Have had the best week since we have been in France.

July 9^th — We are on the move today to Rivery, just outside Amiens. Had to stand to all last night.

July 10^th — On the move towards the line tonight. Battalion is moving in tomorrow in front of Hamel. Dead men everywhere from the last stunt. Started to rain tonight.

July 11^th — Battalion moving in tonight. Not a very good sector. In front of Hamel. We are living in Fritz old line, taken by the 4^th Division.

July 12^th — We are not having such a bad time. I have done a couple of patrols. The weather still keeps fine.

July 18^th — No Man’s Land is about 1,000 yards wide here. There is enough equipment in Fritz’s trenches to set up a Battalion of men. We relieved the 50th Battalion here.

July 14^th — Leave has opened, so it should not be long before I am in Blighty again.

July 15^th — Have had 6 days in now. Plenty of souvenirs about but are all too big to send home. We are only to send 11 lbs at a time.

July 16^th — We are being relieved by 37th Battalion. Received 1 pair socks from Elsie Tucker today. Very acceptable.

July 17^th — Had my Sgt. killed last night. Sgt. Richards from Wilmot. Don’t know what I will do without him. More like a brother and a fine chap. Have been corresponding with his sister for some time. Don’t know how I will tell her the news.

July 18^th — Received piece of wedding cake from Geo. Voss last night. He was very pleased. Relieved by 37th Battalion last night.

July 19^th — We are having a good rest and need it. Are out for 7 days, only 3,000 yards behind enemy lines.

July 21^st — Had a bath today, the first for a month or more.

July 22^nd — Very quiet time. Only a few shells lying about.

July 23^rd — Raining like one thing. First we have had for a long time.

July 24^th — Fine weather again. Everything quiet. French made a push on our right.

July 25^th — Am just about fed up with this show. Wish I was home again. We expect to take over the front line tomorrow.

July 26^th — On the line again tonight. Raining again pretty hard so everyone is miserable.

July 27^th — Had a good number of Yanks attached to us last night for experience. They are decent lot of chaps. 27 to each Coy.

July 28^th — Weather cleared up again.

July 29^th — Too moonlight to do much active scouting. Moonlight is always bad for my job.

July 30^th — Started to build dug out 2 days ago and have just finished. Just got word that we are to be relieved in 2 days by 44th Battalion. Bad luck after making things comfy.

July 31^st — We are being relieved tonight by 37th Battalion.

August 1918

August 1^st — Have only came back about another 1,000 yards. Might as well be in front line.

August 2^nd — Have just heard that all Australians are going “over the top” shortly. The whole Battalion is pretty bad with diarrhoea.

August 3^rd — We are moving in again tomorrow to hold the line for the stunt, so have got a pretty rotten job. It is going to be a big affair. All are very busy making preparations. Quite a lot of tanks to be employed.

August 4^th — No day of rest today. Have been out of bed since 3 a.m. Things fairly quiet today, so Division are to be engaged in the push.

August 5^th — Expect to be “over the top” tomorrow morning. 23 guns will be in action so there will be some noise.

August 6^th — The Brigade is in reserve tomorrow. Only 4 officers are to go if needed. C.O. thinks I have had enough for a while, so I am to stay here, about 2,000 yards behind front line. The Battalion may not be needed. I hope it is not.

August 13^th — Moved another 3 miles forward. Have camped near a lot of captured guns near Warfusée. Proyart evacuated by Fritz.

August 14^th — Not feeling too good today. Have been relieved and are going back about 2,000 yards to Reginald Wood.

August 15^th — Have heard that we are moving south again. Still feeling unwell.

August 16^th — Fritz are coming back in hundreds. He is in full retreat.

August 17^th — The doctor is sending me to hospital tomorrow.

August 18^th — Church Parade.

August 19^th — Started for hospital today at 9 am. Arrived at C.C.S at MD. Arrived at 52^nd C.S. at 3 pm.

August 20^th — Left Daours at 4 pm yesterday and arrived at 4 am this morning.

August 21^st — Am being sent down to Con (? Convalescent) camp at Le Havre tomorrow. This is a nice hospital.

August 22^nd — Arrived at Le Havre at 11 pm and at camp at 1 am. About 200 officers here.

August 23^rd — All day in bed 5 days. It seems strange to be in for so long.

August 25^th — Went to concert held in one of the hospital buildings. The way I was rugged up would make you think I was really ill (very ill).

August 27^th — Am allowed up today. Went for a walk to beach today.

August 28^th — Down to the beach again today. See breeze is splendid.

August 29^th — Another concert tonight. Expect to go out of hospital in a couple of days.

August 30^th — Leaving hospital today at 2.30 pm.

August 31^st — Left hospital yesterday and arrived at base. Have to stay here for 2 days.

September 1918

September 2^nd — Started for Battalion today. 16 hours in the train. Arrived at Corbie at 6 am.

September 3^rd — Rest here today. Moved at 10 am and arrived at Cappy at 6 pm.

September 4^th — On the march again so have to follow.

September 5^th — Have marched about 35 miles during the last 3 days so am very tired.

September 6^th — Arrived at Battalion tonight at 7 pm. There are only about 200 fighting strength left. A lot killed but most wounded in the last stunt.

September 7^th — Battalion is moving forward tonight or in the morning.

September 8^th — Moved about 4 miles forward on left of Péronne.

September 9^th — Battalion moved to line last night in front of Rosières.

September 10^th — Expect to be relieved tomorrow. Battalion is about 200 strong. Expect long spell soon. It is 6 months since we saw any civilians.

September 11^th — Relieved by 4th Battalion at 10.30 pm. Moved back about 4 miles and had to dig our possies. No accommodation at all. We are in a wood, Redwood.

September 12^th — Finished digging in today and are fairly comfy now. Only had about 8 casualties while we were in the line.

September 13^th — Have been warmed that I am to take over duties of Town Mayor of Bussy. This is one of the towns Fritz burned down.

September 14^th — Moved into new job today. Town about as big as Merton. Not a roof intact. Not a room with more than 2 walls. Germans have even broken open the graves in the churchyard. Worst case of vandalism I have ever seen. Have to erect tents to house any hoops who come along. About 800 here at present.

September 15^th — Sunday.

September 16^th — Have just been around the area which is about 7 miles long and 3 miles wide.

September 17^th — Have been provided with a horse to ride around the area. There are about 2,000 troops here now.

September 18^th — Went down to Péronne today. About as big as Hobart but awfully knocked about.

September 19^th — Weather is still holding good. Two chaps went to bathe today in the river and were impaled on bayonets that had been attached to stakes in the water by the Fritz.

September 20^th — 37th Battalion disbanded today to make up strength of other Battalion in the Brigade. Reinforcements needed badly. 40th strength about 400 all told.

September 21^st — Battalion refused to be disbanded and are being kept together. Until after next stunt. Am still on the mayor’s job.

September 22^nd — Raining a little today.

September 23^rd — Fine weather again. The Americans are making things move down south.

September 24^th — Don’t think things have looked brighter since we have been in France.

September 25^th — Expect to be out for another 3 or 4 days and then do a stunt, after which we go back to civilization.

September 26^th — Battalion is spending most of its time playing cricket. A corps of Americans have moved up today so it won’t be long before the stunt.

September 27^th — Moved up about 4 miles closer tonight. It is going to be a very big show. Hope it breaks the Hindenburg Line.

September 28^th — Yanks went over this morning, but got cut up. They have not had enough experience. Bulgaria surrendered unconditionally.

September 29^th — Battalion went over yesterday and took portion of the Hindenburg Line. Only had 79 casualties.

October 1918

 October 1^st — Still moving forward slowly. Line consisted of tunnels running underground for about 3 miles. Also canals underground.

October 2^nd — Have not taken many prisoners this time. Line is about 6 miles in front of Hindenburg Line now.

October 3^rd — Hope to be going out tomorrow.

October 4^th — Expect to go back about 50 miles for a long rest tomorrow.

October 5^th — Battalion left at MD for Abbeville. I am riding down in the morning. We are going farther than we thought about 100 miles back. The whole of the Australians are out of the line now.

October 6^th — Left at 10 am this morning.

October 7^th — Horse fell from bridge into river yesterday and was almost drowned. Reached Daours at 7 pm and left again at 7 am this morning.

October 8^th — Arrived at Abbeville last night at 4 pm. Very sore and tired. Battalion resting for a week, then training. Expect to stay out for 3 months.

October 9^th — Have been detailed to attend Brigade school as instructor. Battalion is billeted at Érondelle.

October 10^th — Arrived at school at Bailleul sur Somme at 3 pm. About 50 men in attendance.

October 11^th — Are settling down alright. Rained this afternoon.

October 12^th — Half holiday. Went into Abbeville. Rained again today.

October 13^th — Germany agreed to Wilsons’ terms.

October 14^th — Don’t think the war will last much longer.

October 15^th — Rained all day today. Received 11 letters.

October 16^th — School finishes tomorrow. Peace talks have fallen through.

October 17^th — Another school starts on Monday. Turkey has surrendered.

October 18^th — Battalion are holding sports today so will visit them.

October 19^th — Went out to see Harry about 10 miles away instead of going to sports yesterday. Stayed about 2 hours. Had that much to say. I don’t think we said half.

October 20^th — Weekend in Abbeville.

October 21^st — New school starts today. About 30 pupils.

October 22^nd — Have been having a good deal of rain lately. News in papers is good. Don’t think it can go on much longer.

October 23^rd — C.I. has taken ill with flu as am in charge of whole school.

October 24^th — Brigade march today. Was in charge of school. Two Coys.

October 25^th — School finishes today. Return to Battalion tomorrow. Good deal of sickness in Battalion.

October 26^th — Back to Battalion today. Glad to get back.

October 27^th — Went to Abbeville with Dick and Rat.

October 28^th — Have taken charge of special platoon. Battalion is playing plenty of football.

October 29^th — Had a game today. Captain of 2^nd 18. First team won.

October 30^th — Feeling pretty stiff today. Have had fine weather during last week. Turkey signed Armistice today. This is first of German allies to go.

October 31^st — Another game today. Each afternoon is spent in football.

November 1918

 November 1^st — We are being issued with our winter clothing today. Gloves, cardigan, underpants and singlets.

November 2^nd — Rumor that we go back to line next week. 12th Battalion are coming over to play us football on Monday. Am hoping that Harry will come over with them.

November 3^rd — Austria signed armistice.

November 4^th— Played 12th Battalion football. Got beaten. Disappointed that Harry did not come over.

November 5^th — Raining hard today. Now that Austria and Turkey are out of the war we do not expect to have to wait long for Germany to finish.

November 6^th — Had a day in bed with rheumatism. Raining all day. Always feel rheumatism when it is wet.

November 7^th — Another day in bed today. Feeling a lot better today. Major Paine arrived back from hospital.

November 9^th — Battalion played field ambulance and won.

November 10^th — Sunday.

November 11^th — Hostilities cease at 11 am today. Everyone very pleased. Received the news at 8.30 am.

November 12^th — Everyone has taken the news very quietly. French people have hung out flags and one or two have got drunk, but generally very quiet.

November 13^th — War is practically now finished. But we are expecting to have another trip up the line. We are moving to a dryer town tomorrow.

November 14^th — Moved to Eaucourt today. Nice and dry after the place where we have been.

November 15^th — We are having some splendid weather now. Am playing football this afternoon.

November 16^th — Played 39th Battalion football and won by 5 points. Rumor that we are going to garrison Germany. Are moving somewhere on Saturday next.

November 17^th — Sunday.

November 18^th — Have been warned to go on Paris leave on 25^th.

November 19^th — Played 38th Battalion football and won by 14 pts. We are probably going to Valenciennes. Other Divisions have gone to Germany.

November 20^th — Weather is very cold now.

November 21^st — Twisted my ankle today and it is rather sore.

November 22^nd — Very cold wind blowing all day. We are not doing much training now nearly all ceremonial. Wish we were in Tassie now that it is summer.

November 23^rd — Two years tomorrow since the Battalion arrived in France, so we are going to have a big dinner to celebrate.

November 24^th — Going on leave to Paris at 2.10 pm. Celebrated in correct manner last night. Numerous speeches.

November 25^th — Leave postponed to tomorrow.

November 27^th — Left Abbeville at 1.10 pm and arrived in Paris at 5 pm. Had a look around after dinner. Seems to be plenty of life here. King George visits Paris tomorrow.

November 28^th — Had a good look around after. Went to Folies Bergere. Saw Zig-Zag. Very funny play. Nearly made myself ill laughing, and after all Paris turned out to see King George drive past.

November 29^th — King George drove through the streets today. The people nearly went mad. It seems to me that all the people live on tips. Have not seen any poorly dressed people here at all.

November 30^th — Went to see Napoleon’s tomb at Invalides. Still sand bagged up. Then to Palais Luxemburg, then to Gaumont Picture Theatre Palace. This place is the biggest theater in Paris and will hold 5,000 people.

December 1918

December 1^st — All shops closed today.

December 2^nd — Went to Versailles today. Saw Palace of Napoleon. Very interesting. French girl came with me and explained everything. Have spent £40 up to date. Very expensive.

December 3^rd — Have changed hotels 3 times. Had to find decent hotel. Went to the comic opera. Everything French, but not bad.

December 4^th — Have spent about £60 up to date. Very expensive here. Went to King Henry VII Theatre tonight. Very comical.

December 5^th — Went to Olympics Variety show. Weather had been fairly fine so far. Paris is some place!

December 6^th — Saw King of Belgium pass through the streets today.

December 7^th — Left Paris at 9.30 am for Battalion. Have had a splendid time. I wish I was staying longer. Arrive at Battalion at 3 pm.

December 8^th — Service held by new padre who is a Methodist.

December 9^th — Fine day today. Have not quite recovered from my trip to Paris yet. Battalion is moving on Wed.

December 10^th — Aussie mail in today. Received 5 letters but none from home.

December 11^th — Raining like one thing. Not feeling too well. Had day in bed.

December 12^th — Battalion moved to Tours today. Rotten hole. Mud everywhere and no good billets. Hope we don’t stay long. March of 20 kilometers.

December 13^th — Pay day today. Rained all day so there is still plenty of mud about. Inoculated again today, so am in for a bad time.

December 14^th — Weather had cleared up again. There is still plenty of mud about.

December 15^th — Church parade today.

December 16^th — Rained liked one thing today. Mud in the streets is over boot tops.

December 18^th — Still raining. Men went to Baths. First they have had for three weeks.

December 29^th — Inspection by C.O. today. Everybody is getting fed up with nothing to do. The time does hang heavy

December 20^th — Battalion has received £120 from the 40th Battalion Comforts Funds. Are going to buy poultry for Christmas Dinner.

December 21^st — Weather is very cold now. Have job to keep warm. Are holding a sports meeting on Christmas Day. Special Church service tomorrow.

December 22^nd — Battalion church parade today.

December 23^rd — Raining again today.

December 24^th — Sun is shining today for the first time for weeks. It is fine to be able to sit in the sun.

December 25^th — Christmas Day. Beautiful day. Sports in this afternoon. Hope to be home for the next one. We are having our Christmas Dinner tomorrow, as we have to look after the men today.

December 26^th — Boxing Day. Another fine day. Horse races today. Am riding the Coy horse. Had an awful big dinner today.

December 27^th — Raining again today. G.O.C. is inspecting Battalion tomorrow. Concert party coming here tomorrow to give us a show.

December 28^th — G.O.C. did not come round on account of bad weather. Arrangements have been made for another sports meeting to be held on New Year’s Day. Custom is in France, to kiss all the girls on New Year’s Day so there is going to be some fun.

December 29^th — Church today. Are making preparations for New Year’s Day. Intend to hold race meeting.

December 30^th — Last day of the year. Hope to be home by this time next year. Rained again today. Had dance on the road at 12 o’clock midnight.

January 1919

January 1^st — Races today. Had 2 mounts, but could only ride 3^rd. Very quiet day. Generally fine day but very damp underfoot.

January 2^nd — Another wet day. Have sent to England for another diary.

January 1919

January 1^st — New Years Day. Horse races today.

January 2^nd — Had a letter from Charlie and Harry today. They are both in Belgium.

January 3^rd — We are just about settled down now after the holidays.

January 4^th — Still raining. This is a very wet part of the country.

January 5^th — Sunday.

January 6^th — Received Aussie mail today.

January 7^th — Bath today. Had to march about 5 kilometers to them.

January 8^th — Inspected by C.O. and complimented on appearance of Coy.

January 9^th — Inspected by Brigadier McNichol today. Sent home photos of Battalion today.

January 10^th — Have had a couple of days of real fine weather.

January 11^th — Holding a Battalion concert tonight at 6.30. Play entitled “20 years after”.

June 12^th — Church parade today.

January 13^th — Another concert last night. Battalion had arranged a dance for next Thursday night. Expect to have some of the village belles present.

January 14^th — Rained again today. Still doing very little work.

January 15^th — Baths again today. Got wet through going over to them.

January 16^th — Have got a touch of scabies and they are very itchy.

January 17^th — Wet again today. The mud is awful. C.O. made full Colonel today.

January 18^th — Concert tonight and it is an improvement on the last one.

January 20^th — Very cold but fine weather.

January 22^nd — Pay-day today. Have had 2 or 3 very heavy frosts lately.

January 23^rd — Brigade parade today. Brigadier told us we would not be here long enough to hold another Brigade Parade so we must be going home soon.

January 24^th — Offered leave to Blighty but have no money in my book so could not go.

January 25^th — Presentation of colours postponed for some time.

January 27^th — Snowed today.

January 29^th — About 3 inches of snow on the ground this morning. Baths again today.

January 29^th — Cup day at home today so we are holding a meeting here. We are having 5 races.

January 30^th — Had to postpone races yesterday on account of the snow. First draft of men (120) is ready to leave and is expected to get away in about 10 days.

January 31^st — About 2 inches of snow still on the ground and the weather is still very cold.

February 1919

February 1^st — Concert party gave another show.

February 2^nd — Owing to strike in England all boats have been delayed about 3 weeks.

February 4^th — W.A.A.C’s are giving a dance tonight to 30 of the Battalion. No officers allowed to attend.

February 5^th — Had a big fall of snow today. The ground had about 4 inches of snow on it now.

February 6^th — Beautiful day today. Snow thawing very quickly. Pay-day today.

February 7^th — Last inspection by Major Paine, who is leaving us tomorrow, for Aussie very soon.

February 8^th — Battalion concert tonight. One man is ill so I am to take his place.

February 9^th — Sunday. Major Paine left today.

February 10^th — Has stopped snowing but it is still very cold.

February 11^th — Some excitement in the village tonight. One of the billets caught fire.

February 12^th — Have just been informed that I will probably be on the first draft.

February 13^th — We are giving another concert next Friday. Or Saturday. Examined by doctor today and am ready to leave now.

February 14^th — Rehearsing for concert this afternoon.

February 15^th — Last Battalion parade today. C.O. said ‘Goodbye’ we are leaving here at 12.30 p.m. tomorrow. Will take about 6 weeks before we get away from Blighty. Best concert we have had last night.

February 16^th — Left Tours at 12.30 p.m. and marched to Blangy where we stayed overnight.

February 17^th — Very tired after our 14 km march yesterday. All the Battalion turned out and cheered as we moved off. Left Blangy at 9.30 am and arrived at Le Havre at 6.30 pm.

February 18^th — Nothing to do today. Expect to be in camp for 10 days. Went to the pictures tonight.

February 19^th — Had a splendid bath tonight and had some new underclothes issued.

February 20^th — Weather has been very wet since we came to this camp. Saw the Yanks play basketball tonight.

February 21^st — Went to a play “General Post” tonight. Splendid show. All entertainment in the camp is free.

February 22^nd — We were going to Le Havre today but owing to wet weather had to postpone the trip.

February 24^th — Saw some splendid boxing and wrestling tonight. We expect to get away next Friday.

February 26^th — Still raining. This is the wettest winter we have had in France.

February 27^th — Had a day in bed today with cold in the back. Must have caught it after the bath I had today.

February 28^th — Rumours that we are leaving for England tonight. Left camp at 8.15 pm and went aboard “Monas Queen” at 10 pm. Travelled in motor buses from camp. Left wharf at Le Havre at 12.15 pm (?) and had a splendid trip.

March 1919

March 1^st — Calmest trip the boat has had for 15 years. Arrived at Weymouth at 10.15 am and after having a free meal we boarded the train for Longbridge Dervil (or Derverill) camp. About 2 hours in the train. Arrived at camp about 2 pm.

March 3^rd — Men are getting very well fed here. Flu is very bad here. We have sent away 32 cases.

March 4^th — We are to be inoculated today for flu. Raining like one thing.

March 5^th — All inoculated today and the arm is not so bad as last one.

March 6^th — Went to a dance at Frome tonight and had a splendid time although I was very awkward. Arrived home at 4 am. Going on leave tomorrow.

March 7^th — Leave starts at 8 am today. Left Westminster at 7.40 am for London. “Reveillé” at 3.30 pm. Arrived London 11 am. Went to “The Colosseum.” Not a bad show.

March 8^th — Bought new tunic today. Went to “Hippodrome” and saw “Box of Tricks.” Very humorous. Expect to leave London on Monday. We are staying at Australian Officers Club. Very nice place.

March 10^th — Went to “Lilac Dominoes” tonight. Quite a good show.

March 11^th — Went to see “Big Boys” of Broadway. Quite a good show. Going to the country tomorrow.

March 12^th — Missed the train and did not go to Surrey.

March 13^th — Real fine day today. Saw an American show tonight called “Us” (or Yes).

March 14^th — Saw “Yes Uncle” tonight. Very funny show. Another fine day today.

March 15^th — Went and saw “Soldier Boy” tonight. Spending most of my time seeing the shows at night and the sights by day.

March 17^th — Met a little R.A.F. girl and we had dinner together.

March 18^th — Went out to her Headquarters and told a tale and she has four days leave. Went to Palladium.

March 19^th — It is a splendid day today so we are going down the river.

March 20^th — Weather has been rather decent lately. Still fine.

March 21^st — Went to “As you were” tonight. Not at all bad. Bought some music for our concert party.

March 22^nd — We are all supposed to go back to camp at 7 pm but Rat and I are not going till 12 MN. It is snowing like one thing.

March 23^rd — Seems pretty quiet here after London.

March 24^th — Capt. Crook came over to see us today. (Crook-Cruickshank)

March 25^th — Received wire from Lord Chamberlain to report to report to Buckingham Palace for Investiture.

March 26^th — Left London bridge Derverill at 3.30 pm and arrived London about 8 pm. Went to a show.

March 27^th — Attended the Investiture this morning. Was not so nervous as I expected. Shook hands with the King who congratulated me on winning the cross. About 30 other officers decorated.

March 28^th — Rat came up today and will be decorated tomorrow. Snowed tonight.

March 29^th — About a foot of snow on the ground this morning. Went to Palace to see Investiture. Officers Club closed today so had to move.

March 31^st — Have to go back today as my leave is finished at 12 MN.

April 1919

April 1^st — Arrived back at 8.30 am this morning. Had a very cold trip but it is a splendid day now.

April 2^nd — Went to a show tonight. We are getting plenty of entertainment now in camp.

April 3^rd — The sun is getting quite hot now the weather is splendid.

April 4^th — Another birthday today. Very quiet, no celebration.

April 6^th — Sunday.

April 7^th — The weather is getting splendid now. We go for a good walk every morning and afternoon.

April 8^th — We do not expect to get away until early in next month now.

April 9^th — Quota Concert Party held their first show tonight. Quite a success. I was to have been one of the party but did not feel up to it.

April 10^th — Rained tonight. First time for quite a while.

April 11^th — Held a dance for the Diggers tonight. About 50 W.A.A.F, 20 VAD’s, and 30 Aussie nurses attended. Quite a good show.

April 13^th — Sunday.

April 14^th — Received Aussie mail of 4 letters today. Part of January mail.

April 15^th — Rumour that we are leaving for Aussie on 24^th. Hope it is true.

April 16^th — Very cold today. It had been wet all the week. Quota played football against n°4 quota and won.

April 17^th — Another concert party, “The Kookaburras” showed tonight. Good show.

April 18^th — Had a very quiet day today. Nowhere to go except for a walk. All trees are coming into bloom again.

April 19^th — Definitely decided that some of the quota is to go home on the “Karidona” on the 30^th. Only a small boat so the quota is to be split up. Don’t know yet how the officers are to be allotted. Hard luck after being together so long to be broken up.

April 28^th — Leaving tomorrow. “Réveillé” at 3.30 am. Catch train at 7.15 am. My Platoon is on first train. Second train leaves at 9.30 am. Everyone excitedly packing.

April 29^th — “Reveillé” at 3 am. Parade at 4.40 am. Left Warminster at 7.15 am. Arrived on boat at 12.30 pm. Expect to get away at 8 am tomorrow.

April 30^th — Have made a mistake in days here. We came on board today and slept on board. All officers have cabins.

May 1919

May 1^st — Left Plymouth at 6.30 am. Quite a difference travelling in a cabin when I came on a hammock. We have had a fine trip today, but of course everybody is feeling a little ill.

May 2^nd — We have a cup of tea and bread and butter brought to the cabin at 7.30 am. Breakfast at 9 am. Dinner at 7 pm. All the crews are Lascars. Boat rolled a good deal all last night. We are going the Bay of Biscay.

May 3^rd — The boat is travelling splendidly now we are through the Bay. We have 4 nurses on board, one married. The boat is doing about 16 knots. Have seen a good deal of shipping on the move.

May 4^th — Passed Gibraltar at 4.30 pm. Splendid weather. Still having good weather. Water is like a millpond. Formed a jazz band today and caused some amusement. Had a look through the engine room today.

May 5^th — Did 327 miles today. Concert party held a show tonight. Quite a good show. Have formed a glee club.

May 7^th — 335 miles today. We have a sweepstake every day, on the distance the boat will travel. Passed Malta today.

May 8^th — 332 miles. Held a pillow fight this afternoon. Glee Club is giving a show in a couple of days. This party is made up of all the mugs on board.

May 9^th — 321 miles today. Cock-fighting contest today. Of course I have to be in everything. Some of the crew have developed mumps.

May 10^th — Expect to arrive at Port Said at 2.30 pm. The “China” which left 12 hours after us is racing us into Port. She had been in all morning. Arrived Port Said at 2.45 pm. No-one allowed ashore on account of trouble caused by last Aussies allowed ashore. We are here for 24 hours.

May 11^th — Left Port Said at 6 pm for Colombo. Passed big Armenian Refugee camp.

May 12^th — We are going through the Red Sea now. It is usually very hot here, but at present it is glorious. The Canal is 90 miles long. “China” passed us again tonight.

May 13^th — It is very close today. All cabins are fitted with fans and we have them going all night. Holding fancy-dress dinner tomorrow. I am going as Mary Pickford. Water in the sea is very warm. 16 degrees.

May 14^th — Hottest day today we have had so far. Held dinner. Very good turn-out. Hot weather made things uncomfortable. 30 different costumes. Officers want me to arrange another one.

May 15^th — We came out of Red Sea at 2 pm. It has been awfully hot during last 4 days. Passed 12 Apostles Islands at 3 pm. We have 2 papers going on board now.

May 16^th — We are having much cooler weather now that there is a breeze blowing. The mugs held a concert last night. Went off quite well. Saw lots of flying fish last night.

May 17^th — Weather still very warm. Last sight of land, the last we will see before reaching Colombo. Expect to get there next Friday.

May 18^th — “China” is 210 miles ahead of us.

May 19^th — Some of crew have contracted measles. Are going to run a sweep. First prize £100. We are running sports for next fortnight.

May 20^th — Weather continues to be very hot. The trip is getting very monotonous. Did 327 miles.

May 21^st — More sports today. Nearly all are water sports. We have a big canvas bath erected on deck, where we can have a dip. 329 miles.

May 22^nd — Concert party giving a show tonight. Expect to reach Colombo tomorrow morning, at 8 am. We are all hoping to be allowed off for a walk.

May 23^rd — Not allowed off today. We are only waiting to finish coaling. We are taking on 1,300 tons of coal.

May 25^th — On homeward track at last 1.30 am.

May 26^th — Had a very rough trip yesterday. We were just on the edge of the monsoon area. Weather has cooled considerably. Crossing the line today. Usual ceremony. Only 6 ships officers to dip.

May 27^th — Had a great day yesterday dipping those who had not been over the line. The weather has turned a little rough. 314 miles.

May 28^th — Weather getting rougher. Had some rain today. Heard that there is a strike in Aussie. Expect to be in Fremantle in 7 days. 299 miles.

May 29^th — Have had the roughest day we have had since we started. Blowing a gale. Some waves dashing over the front of the boat. Very few down to meals. Did 265 miles.

May 30^th — Still rough but is calming down. Passed Cocos Island 12 MN. Last night. Sweep of £50 was drawn today and won by an officer. 295 miles.

May 31^st — Sea is a lot calmer today. Are in touch with Australia by wireless. Expect to reach Fremantle on Wednesday morning. Did 291 miles today.

June 1919

June 1^st — 311 miles.

June 2^nd — Weather almost calm again now. 294 miles.

June 3^rd — Expect to arrive Fremantle in the morning. Weather quite calm.

June 4^th — Arrived Fremantle 7 am but were not allowed on shore till 1 pm. Owing to medical inspection of each man. Fremantle very small and quiet place. Sailed at 6 pm.

June 5^th — 285 miles. Have had a good deal of rain today. Sea is fairly calm.

June 6^th — Quite calm in the Bight although we expected to get some rough weather. We are making for Adelaide now. 336 miles.

June 7^th — Another fine day today we expect to be in Adelaide tomorrow at 12 MD. Then on to Melbourne. We have had an exceptionally fine trip through the Bight. 324 miles.

June 8^th — 314 miles.

June 9^th — Reached Adelaide at 1 pm. Anchored in the Bay until the doctor gave a clear ticket. Drew into wharf and allowed off from 2 pm till 11 pm.

June 10^th — Surprise of my life when Charlie came to see me. Thought he was still in France. Left Adelaide at 1.30 pm for Melbourne. Expect to get there tomorrow midnight. 308 miles.

June 11^th — Boat rolled more last night than it has done before.

June 12^th — Arrived at Portsea at 7 am. Passed by doctor and reached Melbourne at 1 pm. Had a wonderful reception. The streets were lined with people who cheered. It is worth going away for.

June 13^th — Boat for Tassie leaves today but is full so we have to wait till it comes back. We will be here for almost a week.

June 14^th — We are staying at Federal Palace in Collins St. Not a bad place. Went to a show but nothing like London. Going out to Dave’s tomorrow.

June 15^th — Saw Dave today and am going to Alfs’ tomorrow. Went out to Alfs’ and he wants me to stay until I leave for home. Think I will go out.

June 14^th — Moved out to St. Kilda today. A lot better than staying in town. Alva is pretty bad but is getting up tomorrow.

June 18^th — Went out to see Aunt Causer yesterday. Did not recognize any of them. Only stayed about a couple of hours.

June 19^th — Expect to leave tomorrow. Have to be medically examined today.

June 20^th — Had a quiet day today. Leaving tomorrow at 10 am. Alva is not well today.

June 21^st — Left pier at 10 am and anchored in the bay. Some of the firemen have struck 2 pm. On the move again. We are in for some rough weather.

June 22^nd — Very rough last night.

June 23^rd — Had a fair day yesterday and arrived Barnes’ Bay for quarantine at 1 pm.

June 24^th — Weather quite good here but it is terrible slow. We are wired in and not allowed to mix with civilians. Can’t see any houses at all.

June 26^th — There is a free picture show every night.

June 27^th — Have a temperature taken every day.

June 28^th — Held some sports today and had a pretty good day. Only 2 more days, then home!

June 29^th — Sunday. Home tomorrow.

June 30^th — Left Barnes’ Bay at 8.30 am and arrived Hobart at 10.30 am. Home at 11.30 am. At last!!

Discharged 14 – 8 – 1919

This diary has been copied from A.P. Brown’s original diary which is in the Hobart Barracks Museum in Hobart, Tasmania Australia.

It has been copied by hand by his daughter Bessie Furlani of Howrah, Tasmania Australia and delivered by his grand-daughter Marguerite Arbon to Villers-Bretonneux on the 25^th April 2013.